Colorado, Purdue interested in UC's Jones

Nov. 30, 2012

UC head coach Butch Jones talks with his offense during an Oct. 6 game against Miami. / The Enquirer/Joseph Fuqua II

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Sources have confirmed that Purdue has shown a strong interest in UC football coach Butch Jones, although so far he has not received a firm offer.

Meanwhile, the Denver Post reported that Colorado has identified Jones as one of its top targets as it seeks a replacement for Jon Embree. Columnist Woody Paige calls Jones “one of the best and brightest coaches in college football” and cites two knowledgeable sources outside of Colorado who say that Jones, who reportedly turned down an offer from Kentucky, could be talking with CU shortly after UC ends its season Saturday at Connecticut.

Jones has not returned calls and UC athletic director Whit Babcock said in a text message Thursday night that he would not comment on other schools’ coaching searches.

It is believed that UC is working to renegotiate Jones’ contract. Jones signed a contract extension at the end of last season that kept him under contract through 2017. He has $1.4 million buyout clause in his current contract if he leaves before Jan. 1.

Jones has not returned calls, and UC athletic director Whit Babcock said in a text message Thursday night that he would not comment on other schools’ coaching searches.

Sources say that UC is trying to rework parts of Jones’ contract in an attempt to keep him.

Included in those talks is a guarantee that Nippert Stadium will be renovated within a defined period of time.